Father and son identified as victims in Holden Beach drowning

HOLDEN BEACH, N.C. — Authorities have identified the two people who drowned Sunday morning at Holden Beach.

The victims were identified as Daniel Jason Roberts, 46, and Dylan Daniel Roberts, 20, both of Lenoir.

Holden Beach police, fire and EMS personnel responded around 9:43 a.m. Sunday after receiving reports of two adults in distress in the ocean.

First responders attempted rescue efforts and provided advanced life support, but both men were pronounced dead.

Holden Beach Mayor Alan Holden said the tragedy has deeply affected the community.

“The community has really been set back by this, realizing the feelings of the family and the caring for them as visitors, as I understand they were,” Holden said. “We are concerned and would do anything we can do to help them.”

Town officials said strong southwest winds and dangerous ocean currents created hazardous swimming conditions Sunday morning. Officials are urging residents and visitors to use caution before entering the water, as an elevated risk of rip currents is expected to continue throughout the week.